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Examining the Relationship between Information Systems, Sustainable SCM, and Competitive Advantage

Author

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  • Asterios Stroumpoulis

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Piraeus, 18534 Piraeus, Greece)

  • Evangelia Kopanaki

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Piraeus, 18534 Piraeus, Greece)

  • George Karaganis

    (Last Mile Logistics, 19600 Magoula, Greece)

Abstract

Sustainability, information systems (IS), and sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) are the main research areas of this study. In an era where environmental and social responsibility is becoming increasingly more important, SSCM is very significant for the survivability and competitiveness of organizations. Information systems may facilitate sustainable practices, as they support supply chain processes, decrease costs, and enable the control and monitoring of operations. The aim of this research is to explore the relationship between information systems and SSCM and explain under what circumstances they could lead to competitive advantage or increase internal business performance. To analyze the above, the methodology comprises a literature review enabling the understanding and conceptualization of the main research constructs and revealing the gaps of previous research. It also comprises qualitative research based on a single-case study allowing an in-depth examination of the subject of study. The findings reveal that the use of information systems, combined with strong interorganizational relationships and collaboration, can support SSCM practices. They can bring important business advantages, such as improved business performance and increased customer loyalty, but not necessarily competitive advantage. The results of this research show that SSCM is a promising field of study, with prospects for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Asterios Stroumpoulis & Evangelia Kopanaki & George Karaganis, 2021. "Examining the Relationship between Information Systems, Sustainable SCM, and Competitive Advantage," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(21), pages 1-21, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:21:p:11715-:d:663137
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    1. Asterios Stroumpoulis & Evangelia Kopanaki, 2022. "Theoretical Perspectives on Sustainable Supply Chain Management and Digital Transformation: A Literature Review and a Conceptual Framework," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(8), pages 1-30, April.
    2. Muen Uddin & Shitharth Selvarajan & Muath Obaidat & Shams Ul Arfeen & Alaa O. Khadidos & Adil O. Khadidos & Maha Abdelhaq, 2023. "From Hype to Reality: Unveiling the Promises, Challenges and Opportunities of Blockchain in Supply Chain Systems," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(16), pages 1-24, August.
    3. Habiburrahman & Andjar Prasetyo & Tri Wedha Raharjo & Herrukmi Septa Rinawati & Trisnani & Bambang Riawan Eko & Wahyudiyono & Sekar Nur Wulandari & Mochammad Fahlevi & Mohammed Aljuaid & Petra Heidler, 2022. "Determination of Critical Factors for Success in Business Incubators and Startups in East Java," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(21), pages 1-17, October.
    4. Agus Joko Pramono & Suwarno & Firdaus Amyar & Renny Friska, 2023. "Sustainability Management Accounting in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: The Role of Performance Auditing in the Manufacturing Sector," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(13), pages 1-13, June.

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